In a 2020 interview, James Talarico, the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Texas, articulated his vision for shifting disciplinary practices in schools away from punitive measures towards restorative justice methods. Talarico linked this educational reform to broader criminal justice reform, advocating for a transition from a “tough-on-crime” approach to a “smart-on-crime” approach. He emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes of misbehavior and moving away from zero-tolerance policies, which he believes disproportionately affect minority students.

Talarico’s restorative justice approach in education focuses on rehabilitation and community building, aiming to repair the harm caused by student misconduct rather than resorting to expulsion or suspension. He argued that this method is more rigorous and effective in fostering a positive school environment. In 2021, while serving in the Texas legislature, Talarico introduced HB 62, a bill seeking to move schools away from in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, and alternative educational programs; however, the bill did not pass. Despite facing opposition from Republican lawmakers, particularly following the Uvalde school shooting in 2022, Talarico remains committed to his belief that investing in education and social programs can deter criminal behavior and potentially make prisons obsolete. Source

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